The Senate has called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward the rescue of 45 victims still being held captive following the abduction of students, teachers, and other residents in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The resolution was reached during Wednesday’s plenary after lawmakers considered a motion sponsored by Senator Buhari Abdulfatai, representing Oyo North Senatorial District.

Presenting the motion, the senator said armed kidnappers abducted 49 people, including schoolchildren, teachers, and a toddler, from Ahoro-Esiele and nearby communities in the local government area.

According to him, three victims were shot during the attack, while a mathematics teacher, identified as Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly beheaded by the abductors.

Senator Buhari described the killing as a barbaric act that has heightened fear and anxiety among residents and raised concerns about the safety of schools and rural communities.

“The victims were abducted from a learning environment which ought to symbolize safety, hope and the future of our nation,” he said.

The Senate also urged the Federal Government to strengthen the Safe Schools Initiative through improved surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enhanced security deployment around vulnerable schools.

Lawmakers condemned the attack and expressed sympathy with the affected families and the Oyo State Government.

The chamber further acknowledged the recent visit of a Federal Government delegation led by the Chief of Staff to the President, alongside the National Security Adviser, Minister of Defence, and Inspector-General of Police, to the affected community.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, commended ongoing government efforts but urged security agencies to justify the resources allocated to them by improving protection of lives and property across the country.